More Steps Taken in New York to Prepare for Joaquin

Certain permits for entering streams and rivers to clear debris are being waived by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for municipalities outside of New York City in preparation for the possibility of a lot of rain from Hurricane Joaquin in the next few days.

Governor Andrew Cuomo told reporters that while the track of the storm is still uncertain, a lot of preparations are being done by the state now to ensure public safety.

Juaquin strengthened to a category 4 storm October 1 as it swept through the Bahamas with 120 mile an hour winds.

At last report, it appeared the storm was drifting a bit to the east, which would keep it over the ocean with no direct landfall.  However, strong winds and heavy rain are possible along the east coast.

Governor Cuomo is urging homeowners to take what he called “the normal precautions”, like making sure emergency supplies are in place.  That would include meals that are ready to eat without a power source available, bottled water and batteries for radios, flash lights and other devices.